Snapshots along with Singing as People of Ethiopia Mark Thanksgiving
A multitude of brightly clothed participants converged in central Ethiopia's capital for the annual gratitude celebration during recent days.
The festival is observed by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and takes place at the completion of the nation's main monsoon period.
Annually, participants come together around revered water bodies to give thanks to their higher powers for the lush vegetation that the rains have delivered.
"I've attended the festival for the past nine years," stated young adult a participant.
"In my view, Irreecha symbolizes my cultural background, it showcases the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Males, women, the older generation and the youth all join in, ornamented in eye-catching clothes and ornaments.
They chant, dance, exchange narratives and deposit recently harvested green plants and flowers in liquid - symbolizing life, rebirth and aspiration.
International Attendance
The celebration brings in individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees fly in from around the world.
"I visited the previous year - the experience was amazing, so magnificent, I brought along my children with me now," expressed Claire, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. All people greets you, everyone offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Festival Schedule
The first day of the celebration occurred on the weekend in Addis Ababa. On the following day, festival-goers travelled to a nearby town, a small town just outside the capital.
Even though this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the larger part of the community, without consideration for their religion.
Contemporary Changes
In the last ten years, the quantity of people attending the celebration has grown significantly. This is partly due to the expansion of social media, where many young people record their clothing, dancing and singing during the festival.
Past Significance
In the previous years, this event was functioned as a stage for public dissent - the ethnic group have long complained about social exclusion.
Nevertheless, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on happiness, togetherness and heritage appreciation.
